Budget Decorating Tips

• Tack ribbon in a lattice pattern over one side of an upholstered screen and you can slide in mementos such as pictures, cards, etc. This will be an effective way to divide your space, while giving you a memento board in the process.
  
  
• Something as simple as a bowl (or interesting container) of oranges can create an interesting touch to any room.
  
  
• Hang any framed work about 5 ½ to 6 feet from the ground. That way they are just slightly above eye level, but at a perfect height for admiring.
  
  
• A coat of fresh paint is a cheap and effective way to rejuvenate tired furniture to look fantastic in your new home.
  
  
• New wall hangings, cushions, and throw rugs can be an extremely cost effective way to adapt your color scheme to complement your new home.
  
  
• Keep a couple of interesting books or magazines on the coffee table.

• Everyday kitchen items can be used in a unique way to accent the décor of any room in your home. For instance, bold patterned dinner plates hung on the wall can give a plain wall a whole new dimension. Likewise, a series of white plate with interesting monotone patterns can create a whole different feel on a brightly painted wall.
  
  
• Clear up chaotic kitchens by hanging pots on the wall. This will free up cabinets and also give the room a new decorative touch.
  
  
• Before you begin to unpack, don't forget to wipe out all cupboards and shelves. You can also use shelving paper to line cupboards and drawers.
  
  
• Boiling cinnamon sticks will give your kitchen a clean, fresh scent.

The Small Room

• Large mirrors will give any small room a spacious and bright feel. Additionally, placing greenery in a position where it can be reflected by your mirror will give the room an even more uplifting feel.
  
  
• By placing delicate chairs around a heavy table, a room is given a more spacious illusion.
  
  
• A small room can be made to feel larger by painting large stripes or daring colors on the walls.

The Exterior

• Planting a few self-seeding perennials can be a cheap and effective way to add color to your new garden.
  
  
• Paint used flower boxes and hang them below your windows after filling them with your favorite flowers.
  
  
• Paint an old ladder and place it along a wall of your home. Set different potted flowers on each step. This simple process will give your exterior a new and inventive look.

Protecting your Home

• Improving the security in your new home will not only give you peace of mind, but will also lower your insurance premiums.